Tamil Nadu’s Opposition to Three-Language Policy

On February 18, 2025, leaders of the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) and its allies staged protest in Chennai. They condemned the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Central Government for what they termed a “betrayal” of Tamil Nadu. The protest focused on the alleged denial of funds and the insistence on implementing the National Education Policy (NEP), specifically its three-language policy. This ongoing issue reflects deep-rooted tensions in federal relations and language politics in India.

Three-Language Policy

The three-language policy is a component of the National Education Policy introduced in 2020. The policy promotes multilingual education, advocating that students learn three languages, including Hindi. However, Tamil Nadu has historically resisted this policy since the era of former Chief Minister CN Annadurai, favouring a two-language model of Tamil and English.

The National Education Policy (NEP)

The NEP aims to reform India’s education system by encouraging skill-based learning and flexible curricula. Despite its progressive intentions, the three-language formula has sparked widespread opposition in Tamil Nadu. Critics argue that it undermines the state’s autonomy over education and disregards the linguistic preferences of its populace.

Political Responses and Protests

DMK leader Udhayanidhi Stalin has been vocal in his criticism of the Central Government’s approach. He claims that the NEP’s implementation represents an attempt to impose Hindi on Tamil Nadu. Stalin emphasised that education should remain under state control, denoting the shift of education from the state list to the concurrent list, which increases Central authority.

Allegations Against the Central Government

The DMK accuses the Union Government of using the Governor’s office to undermine Tamil Nadu’s education system. They argue that the government is attempting to promote Hindi under the guise of the three-language policy, which they view as an attack on Tamil identity. The party claims that these actions are part of a broader agenda to instigate division and conflict within the state.

Central Government’s Stance

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has issued warnings regarding the release of central funds. He stated that financial support would be contingent upon Tamil Nadu’s acceptance of the three-language policy. This ultimatum has further escalated tensions between the state and the Centre.

Opposition from the BJP

The Tamil Nadu BJP, led by K Annamalai, has challenged the DMK’s stance. Annamalai questioned why private schools, attended by the families of Tamil Nadu ministers, could adopt a trilingual approach while government schools could not. This criticism marks the political divide over language education in the state.

Implications for Future Elections

The conflict over the three-language policy is poised to become electoral issue. The DMK’s firm opposition to the Centre’s directives may galvanise support among its constituents. Conversely, the BJP’s counterarguments could resonate with voters advocating for a unified national language policy.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Examine the implications of language policy on federal relations in India.
2. Discuss in the light of Tamil Nadu’s education system and its historical context.
3. Critically discuss the impact of the National Education Policy on regional languages.
4. With suitable examples, analyse the role of political parties in shaping language education policies in India.

Answer Hints:

1. Examine the implications of language policy on federal relations in India.

1. Language policies can create tensions between state and central governments, impacting cooperative federalism.
2. Disputes over language can lead to regional identity crises and demands for autonomy.
3. Central imposition of language policies may provoke protests and political unrest, as seen in Tamil Nadu.
4. Successful federal relations require sensitivity to regional languages and cultures to maintain harmony.
5. Language policy can influence electoral politics, affecting alliances and voter sentiments across states.

2. Discuss in the light of Tamil Nadu’s education system and its historical context.

1. Tamil Nadu has a long-standing preference for a two-language policy, emphasizing Tamil and English.
2. Historical resistance to Hindi in education dates back to former Chief Minister CN Annadurai’s era.
3. The state’s education policy reflects its cultural identity and linguistic pride, resisting external impositions.
4. Protests against the three-language formula highlight the state’s commitment to its linguistic heritage.
5. The evolution of Tamil Nadu’s education system illustrates the broader struggle for regional autonomy in India.

3. Critically discuss the impact of the National Education Policy on regional languages.

1. The NEP promotes multilingualism, which may dilute the emphasis on regional languages like Tamil.
2. Critics argue that the three-language formula undermines the linguistic rights of states with distinct identities.
3. Implementation of NEP may lead to a decline in the quality of education in regional languages.
4. Supporters claim NEP could enhance students’ employability through exposure to multiple languages.
5. The NEP’s impact varies across states, with some embracing it while others resist due to cultural concerns.

4. With suitable examples, analyse the role of political parties in shaping language education policies in India.

1. Political parties often leverage language issues to mobilize support, as seen with DMK’s opposition to Hindi imposition.
2. Regional parties like the DMK advocate for local languages, influencing state education policies .
3. The BJP’s push for a three-language policy reflects its broader national integration agenda, impacting education debates.
4. Political rhetoric around language can shape public sentiment and voter behavior in regional elections.
5. Coalition dynamics among parties can lead to varied approaches to language education, affecting policy outcomes.